Galanthus elwesii
("Snowdrops")
Compared to the more universally known G. nivalis, this species is much taller, has larger flowers and much coarser leaves along with a flowering period that can begin a bit earlier. Also, the green spots present on the inner petals are much larger.
What You Need To Know Before You Plant:
When Will This Flower Bloom?
Late Winter - Very Early Spring
When Should I Buy and Plant These Bulbs?
Fall
What Kind of Light Does This Bulb Prefer?
Full or partial shade
What Color Will the Flower Be?
White
How Far Apart Should I Plant These Bulbs?
2 in / 5 cm
How Deep Should I Dig?
4 in / 10 cm
How Tall Will It Grow?
10-12 in / 25-30 cm
Recommended Number of Bulbs Per Square Foot?
20
Is It Deer/Critter Resistant?
Yes
How Can I Best Use It in My Landscaping?
In borders, rock gardens, under trees and shrubs, and in lawns.
What Should I Do After Flowering?
Allow the foliage to die back naturally to replenish the bulb's energy for next year's growth and flowers. This will happen by late Spring before the rest of your garden gets going. Under favorable conditions (continous moist soil being the most important) they will multiply very quickly. Fewer and smaller flowers are a sign of overcrowding (this will happen after 3-4 years) and then the clumps should be divided just after the plants have finished flowering and while the leaves are still green. Carefully pull the bulbs apart and make sure to keep the foliage intact. Replant immediately and deep enough; making sure that at least 1" / 2cm of the green portion of the leaves is buried. Build up the soil around the stems for extra support.
Other Popular Varieties
Species only.
About the Family
Galanthus Family
The name Galanthus comes from Greek meaning 'milk white flowers'. With more than 75 species and varieties, snowdrops - practically without exception - all bloom very early in the Spring and have, indeed, milky-white flowers. Some times they are confused for 'snowflakes', however that is the common name for the genus Leucojum.
Read More About the Family